Chargers RB Omarion Hampton Aims for Playoff Debut Against Patriots

Los Angeles Chargers running back Omarion Hampton is set to make his playoff debut on January 14, 2024, against the New England Patriots, following a right ankle injury that sidelined him during the Chargers’ Week 18 game against the Denver Broncos. The team has officially listed Hampton as questionable for the game, yet he expressed optimism after participating in limited practice on Friday, marking his first on-field activity since Week 17.

“I’m super excited,” Hampton stated about the possibility of taking the field for the first playoff game of his career. His return is anticipated to boost a Chargers offense that has faced challenges due to injuries throughout the season.

Injury Challenges and Comeback

Hampton’s rookie season has been marred by injuries, beginning with a fracture in his left ankle that led to his placement on injured reserve after the Chargers’ Week 5 loss to the Washington Commanders. He made a comeback in Week 14 against the Philadelphia Eagles, only to sustain another injury to his right ankle during the Chargers’ subsequent game against the Houston Texans.

The injury occurred early in the fourth quarter when he was tackled by linebacker Henry To’oTo’o. Despite the pain, Hampton remained in the game, contributing 29 rushing yards, one touchdown, and 31 receiving yards. “I definitely didn’t want to give up on my team,” he said. “I just wanted to help my team out as much as I could, so I kept my head down and kept playing.”

Rising Star in the Offense

Initially, Hampton struggled to find his footing this season but quickly became a crucial component of the Chargers’ offense after veteran running back Najee Harris suffered a season-ending Achilles injury during the first half of the Chargers’ Week 3 game. With Harris out, the team relied heavily on Hampton, who responded with a standout performance that included a team-high 129 yards from scrimmage and his first NFL touchdown in a tight 23-20 victory.

Since his return in Week 14, Hampton has continued to demonstrate his value. His most impressive outing came against the Dallas Cowboys, where he rushed 16 times for 85 yards and a touchdown.

Regardless of his availability, the Chargers plan to share the workload between Hampton and Kimani Vidal, a sixth-round pick from the 2024 draft, who has excelled in Hampton’s absence. Vidal currently leads the team in rushing yards with 643 yards this season, further complicating the running back situation heading into the playoffs.

As the Chargers prepare for this critical matchup, Hampton’s potential return adds a layer of excitement for fans and teammates alike, marking a pivotal moment in his young career.